we all have triggers....certain things that just set us off. having someone, anyone, go into a useless pointless verbal attack could easily be one!! it is human nature for either Fight or Flight. you stood your ground and chose Fight.
but those words he said GOT to you. you still give them weight and power. maybe i should rephrase that, you have not YET reclaimed ALL your power and therefore the things he says still have the ability to HURT you. it takes time and discipline to retrain our responses. it would be very beneficial to have space, great vast amounts of it, from the abuser. and your exit strategy will help you get there.